The first time I ever saw Natalie I only said about five words to her and didn’t speak to her again that day. My parents invited her to my middle school graduation party at my house and I didn’t even know her. It wasn’t till later that my cousin became friends with her and then we instantly clicked. I knew right away that Natalie wasn’t like other girls and that’s crazy coming from a 15-year-old. The way Natalie was with her family, her friends, and even people she never met. She was so well-mannered and lovable; just a person filled with so much love and joy. It’s something I never saw in a person. There was truly no one like her.

Even though the first time I met her we didn’t say much, we instantly connected the second time. We became best friends at 15 and have talked to each other almost every day since. Of course, there were bumps along the way with us being so young but we grew and matured together. I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s hard for your relationship to become successful having to wait the years we waited to be together, but it was all so worth it in the end. Growing up together and being best friends along the way was the best thing that ever happened to me.

The day of the proposal I was very happy. It was one of the happiest moments of my life. I had so many mixed feelings of being super nervous, anxious, and happy. I just didn’t know how she would react. It ended up being so beautiful with all of our close friends and family there. It was just perfect. Everything came out how it was supposed too, except I forgot the charger for the LED “will you marry me” sign which was annoying but in the end we had such a perfect day.

Getting married is a dream come true for the both of us. Since we were kids we talked about getting married and it’s finally here! I am filled with joy and excitement for the big day.

To have our close friends and family with us feels amazing as they have been with us during our journey together. Our friends have seen how we have grown and loved each other for most of our lives so I definitely believe it’s going to be a very emotional day for all of us. Our family being close friends for years also makes it more emotional, it definitely feels amazing finally celebrating with all of you!

It's funny because the first time we interacted with each other we didn’t say much. I met him at his 8th-grade graduation party. I honestly didn’t know we would hang out again because we didn’t talk much and I felt out of place at his graduation. However, the second time we saw each other, we connected. We immediately started talking every day and got to know each other on a deeper level.

After months of us talking as best friends I knew he was the one for me. It hit me one day when he was giving a part at his Kingdom Hall. I was only 15 years old, but I just felt a sudden feeling that I couldn’t comprehend. I remember sitting down during hall blushing and feeling excited when I saw him. It’s crazy to think that only in a couple of months somehow he became my person, my rock, the one I wanted to spend my whole life with. My thoughts started revolving around him and I loved spending time with him. He was always so caring towards me and my family. I knew Cristian had a very special place in my heart.

The proposal was one of the best days of my life. I remember that day as if it was yesterday. It was perfect and beautiful. I really couldn’t ask for anything more. Getting proposed felt so surreal to me. Candles were lit, pedals were everywhere, and the man I loved was on his knee while playing one of our favorite songs. I felt like I was dreaming.

I’m excited but nervous for the big day. I’m definitely feeling the pre-wedding jitters but soaking in the last months as a fiancé. It’s been a long and wild journey but I’ve always dreamt of this day. I can’t wait to marry Cris!

I can’t wait to celebrate with our favorite people. All of you guys have a special place in Cris or I’s heart. Most have been through it all since we were little teenagers. Counting down the days to celebrate with you all!